Action:
Close the recreational halibut fishery in the northern nearshore area of Marine Area 2 (Westport-Ocean Shores) at the end of the day Wednesday, May 21. The nearshore area extends from the Queets River (47º31.70'N. latitude) south to (46º58.00'N. latitude) and east of a line approximating the 30 fathom depth contour as defined by the following coordinates.

47 º 31.70 N. lat, 124 º 37.03 W. long

47 º 25.67 N. lat, 124 º 34.79 W. long

47 º 12.82 N. lat, 124 º 29.12 W. long

46 º 58.00 N. lat, 124 º 24.24 W. long

Close the recreational halibut fishery in Marine Areas 3 and 4 (Neah Bay and La Push) at the end of the day Saturday May 24.

Effective date:

Marine Area 2:
Close 11:59 pm May 21, 2014

Marine Area 3 and 4:
Close 11:59 pm May 24, 2014

Species affected:
Pacific halibut

Location:
Marine Areas 2, 3 and 4

Reason for action:
The Marine Area 2 recreational halibut fishery has taken the Pacific halibut quota set aside for the northern nearshore area requiring closure of the fishery. The Marine Area 3 and 4 recreational fishery is projected to take the quota remaining in the north coast sub-area by the end of the day May 24. This rule conforms to federal action taken by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC).

Information contact:
Heather Reed, (360) 249-4628 ext. 202

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.